[jriemer]

I agree. If you have a large enough physical plant and the correct fit of needs, co-generation (steam + electricity) is one of the most effective methods around. It's the Mechanical engineering equivalent of a 2 for 1 and all the costs are contained in-house.

Several midwestern universities are going this route to generate power and steam heat for dormitories. When you combine this with long-term fixed-rate gas contracts, the cost becomes even more attractive.

jriemer

[Blood of Tyrants]

Unforetunately, few gas companies are willing to sign long term rates; at least they are not willing to sign them at decent rates.

However, one place is coming up with a novel approach. Near their facility, there is an old dump. (Dumps are GREAT sources of N.G.) So they are planning on putting in the equipment for collecting the N.G. and piping it directly to the turbine and avoiding dealing with the gas companies.